Football Victoria (FV) has released a plan detailing how the remaining games of the 2021 season will be completed once restrictions are lifted, and they are asking for feedback in regards to two different scenarios for completing the State League and National Premier League seasons.
FV has put forward two options. The season will either be extended into November to ensure that the entire season is completed, or only two more games will be played before teams enter the playoffs for promotion and relegation.
FV CEO Kimon Taliadoros addressed in a statement on August 17 that FV was committed to ensuring that the season is completed in a satisfactory manner.
“When the lockdown ends, we’ll be ready to assist Clubs to get back out playing as quickly as possible, as much as possible. We will be vigilant in working with government, councils and our clubs to provide a COVID safe and compliant environment for any of our activities,” he said.
“Further detail will be shared on these arrangements as we approach September 3, the current lockdown end date. These plans include exploring alternative competition options as well as the possibility of a season extension, double-header weekends and for some competitions, mid-week matches.”
The 2020-21 junior season will be extended until September 19, subject to when teams can return to play after the Victoria-wide lockdown has ended.
Junior games will be fixtured on both Saturday and Sunday to ensure catch up games are completed.
FV has agreed a facility sharing agreement with Cricket Victoria for September, however decisions involving facility access still remain with local councils.
Regional areas, which are out of the state wide lockdown, have returned to play.
Taliadoros added the return to play in regional areas was an example of how quickly football is able to return once restrictions are lifted.
“For those in regional Victoria, we’re so, so pleased you are carrying the torch for football and Futsal in our state. As hard as it is for metro participants to miss matches, it is heartening to see the vision from regional Victoria of a more COVID-normal way of life,” he said.
“Your excitement is infectious and seeing you living and loving football uplifts us all. Please keep sharing your magic moments each week.”
The full document and details can be downloaded here.
You can leave feedback for Football Victoria at the following links:
